Special programmes for libraries

There are special programmes that offer libraries in developing and transition countries with free or low cost access to academic and professional peer-reviewed content online. Eligible libraries usually have to meet certain requirements based on GNI per capita (World Bank figures). Please check each programme for the eligibility criteria.

AGORA ( Access to Global Online Resources in Agriculture) set up by the FAO together with major publishers, enables developing countries to gain access to an outstanding digital library collection in the fields of food, agriculture, environmental science and related social sciences. AGORA provides a collection of 1900 journals to institutions in 107 countries.

eIFL is an international not-for-profit organisation based in Europe with a global network of partners. It runs a wide range of programmes and events designed to increase access to knowledge. By negotiating with vendors on behalf of library consortia and libraries in partner countries, eIFL achieves free or highly discounted access to a wide range of commercial e‑resources, plus fair terms of use.See: eIFL Licencing.

GDNet journal services. Global Development Network (GDNet) works with partners to provide researchers working in developing and transition countries with access to journals and other information resources. Services are targeted at eligible researchers and research organizations in developing and transition countries who have registered a profile on the GDNet Knowledgebase, subject to terms of agreement with the service provider.

HINARI (Access to Research in Health) provides free or very low cost online access to the major journals in biomedical and related social sciences to local, not-for-profit institutions in developing countries.

Research4Life is the collective name for three programmes – HINARI, AGORA and OARE - Research4Life provides developing countries with free or low cost access to academic and professional peer-reviewed content online.